

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in today’s dynamic job market with job growth that has exploded in just the last few years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity occupations were expected to grow by 37% from 2012 to 2022 – by far the fastest rate of any field. And this number could rise even more over the next five years if threats to our security become more widespread.
Saint Leo University is proud to offer an associate degree in cybersecurity. This degree is an undergraduate, online degree program that prepares students with knowledge and applicable skills necessary for entry-level careers in cybersecurity. In addition, it provides the broad foundational knowledge to continue on to a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and related areas for even further opportunities for career advancement.
As we rely on technology more and more each day, our lives become increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks, identity theft, and many other potential problems that were non-existent only a decade or two ago. More than ever before, it’s a must to protect any type of data – from personal identifying information like social security numbers to confidential corporate financial records. There is a dire need for skilled professionals to protect all cyber communications systems from the constant threats that exist today.
Almost every day, shocking headlines run across news sites about the latest hack or security breach. This program is essential to providing a comprehensive introduction to the world of cyber security – and why it is more critical than ever.
The Associate of Arts in Cybersecurity degree provides students with the skill set needed to be thought leaders in the field of cybersecurity.
During the coursework, students will be educated in the technical aspects of cyber security systems and will be prepared to assume responsibility for the operation and oversight of these systems. Learn to solve real-life problems involving the design, development, support, and management of hardware, software, network, and systems for securing information resources.
Students who pursue their degrees at Saint Leo’s main campus near sunny Tampa Bay, Florida, join a community of enthusiastic learners just like them.
Cybersecurity students enjoy plenty of engaging learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, as well as exciting departmental events.
Saint Leo University’s online learning experience provides a well-rounded education with the flexibility to tailor your course of study to meet your individual needs. We know our students have lives outside school, and we seek to meet them where they are. Online students can count on receiving excellent academics as well as opportunities for hands-on learning.
Taking online classes has afforded me the opportunity to learn while maintaining a job. They give me some flexibility to study at times that work more cohesively with my schedule and allow me to utilize resources such as the library 24 hours a day.
Bentley Streat | Hayes, VA
You may also choose to pursue your degree through one of our education centers, which merge a traditional in-person education with the flexibility to match your lifestyle. Education centers offer eight-week academic terms as well as evening and weekend classes.
No matter which learning experience you choose, you will receive plenty of professional development opportunities, industry knowledge from expert professors, and support from the Saint Leo community. All this together means that you will be ready for a successful career or continued studies upon graduation.
Classroom learning is only part of the cybersecurity degree program at Saint Leo University. We also know the value of hands-on experience. That is why internships and research projects are built into the curriculum. Saint Leo has a strong relationship with many internship organizations across the country, including Boys & Girls Club and Head Start.
Plus, our Career Services center is always available to help connect you with a variety of other experiential learning opportunities to fit your individual career goals.
Students will gain marketable skills in network defense, internet security, ethical hacking, computer forensics, and managing information security.
Career | Growth | Salary |
---|---|---|
Network administrator | 5% | $84,810 per year |
Information security engineer | 33% | $103,590 per year |
Computer systems analysts | 7% | $93,730 per year |
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020.
Saint Leo University’s Center for Cybersecurity Education (CCE) is housed under the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems in the College of Business. The center strives to strengthen the undergraduate and graduate curricula of the university’s cybersecurity degree programs and create a knowledgeable and skilled workforce to supply a steady stream of cybersecurity professionals for both private and public sector roles. In addition, the center supports student and faculty with cutting-edge applied cybersecurity research.
Our academic programs include both undergraduate and graduate degrees, which are supported by a state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab, a cyberforensic lab, and two computer science labs. Graduates from our programs are equipped with knowledge and experience to pursue careers in the IT industry or advanced research degrees. Faculty and students conduct research on a wide range of topics such as cryptography, database security, information systems security, mobile security, and network security. Plus, the center serves both public and private organizations by providing training and research on current cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.